Study Finds Non-White Populations in England and Wales Face Elevated Post-COVID Heart Risks

A recent comprehensive study has revealed that individuals from non-white ethnic backgrounds in England and Wales continue to experience higher risks of severe health outcomes following COVID-19 infection, particularly related to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The research analyzed health data from over 5 million people in England and 450,000 in Wales who contracted COVID-19 between January 2020 and April 2022. Results indicate that ethnic groups such as Bangladeshi and Pakistani populations face significantly increased mortality rates, with Bangladeshi men, for example, showing a 120% higher risk during certain periods compared to white British counterparts.

Importantly, the study uncovered that these groups also have a greater likelihood of developing cardiovascular complications within 30 days of a COVID-19 diagnosis. Pakistani and Bangladeshi individuals exhibited consistently higher rates of CVD after infection. Despite a reduction in overall mortality during the Omicron wave, the risk of cardiovascular issues remained elevated for specific ethnic groups, emphasizing ongoing long-term health challenges.

The findings underscore the persistent health disparities influenced by ethnicity, socioeconomic factors, and underlying health conditions, even after accounting for variables like age and vaccination status. Dr. Sara Khalid, the lead researcher, stressed the importance of detailed ethnicity data to better understand diverse health needs. The study highlights that granular data analysis can help tailor healthcare strategies to effectively address these disparities.

This research sheds light on the urgent need for targeted public health interventions to reduce ethnic health inequalities and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations impacted by COVID-19 and related cardiovascular risks.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-white-groups-england-wales-higher.html